Ski Smart

Seven apps to download this season to track elevation, distance and more

SkiLynx

Available for Apple or Android.

$2.99

The SkiLynx app might be one of the easiest — and entertaining — ways to keep track of a group on the mountain. The app provides real-time information on where the rest of your crew is on the mountain, from the lift they’re riding to the run they’re cruising. The app also has messaging available between linked-in members, so figuring out a good meeting spot, or checking in with the kids, is at your fingertips.

SkiTracks

Available for Apple or Android.

$0.99

The ultimate data breakdown for individual ski runs, SkiTracks was designed with winter sports in mind, and uses GPS information along with other built-in sensors on your smartphone to offer a better picture of your ski day, run by run.

FATMAP

Available for Apple or Android.

Yearly subscription for $34.99

If you’re looking for some of the best 3D resort maps on the market with map overlays that provide information on slope angle, aspect, gradient, and run difficulty, FATMAP is for you. You can save information about individual runs, and find guides to the resort’s “freeride” lines, which are compiled by local skiers and snowboarders, as well. The company is even making a push to use their map information for summertime hiking guides.

Slopes

Available for Apple.

Free

Run by run data analysis right to your smart phone is free on the Slopes app, along with the ability to take pictures, notes, and share information on your ski day with friends. The data gathering on the app is great for providing an overall picture of your day, and even works in the backcountry for detailed data on the day’s vertical. Try using the app’s built-in fitness tracker to feel better about indulging in après.

On the Snow Ski & Snow Report

Available for Apple or Android.

Free

On the Snow’s trusted forecasts for more than 2,000 ski areas are now accessible via the meteorology site’s mobile app, and along with resort-by-resort weather information, provides user sourced real-time information on snow conditions. Along with detailed information on weather and snow conditions, the app also has trail maps, resort overviews and discounts on gear.

OpenSnow

Available for Apple or Android.

Free

Colorado ski country meteorologist Joel Gratz has had a cult following — particularly on the Front Range — for years via Open Snow’s website, and the site’s mobile app offers full access to Gratz and his team’s forecasts. The app also works to provide detailed snow forecasts for international destinations, as well.

EpicMix

Available for Apple or Android.

Free

Run-by-run information, daily overviews, on-mountain photo albums and connecting to friends and family for a little friendly competition are all the possibilities encompassed by Vail Resorts’ smartphone app, which is specific to the company’s ski areas. The app tracks daily and seasonal average vertical feet, and even awards virtual pins and badges to signify on-mountain achievements.